Protopic Ointment is a non-steroid prescription medication and belongs to the class of medicines called as calcineurin inhibitors. It is used for the treatment of eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children aged 2 years and older who do not have a weakened immune system. Protopic ointment is for skin use only and should be used only after other therapies have been shown to be infective or unsuitable. It should be used for short or intermittent long periods of treatment as directed by your doctor. This ointment can be applied to all the affected areas of the skin including the face, neck and eyelids. The exact mechanism by which this medication works is unknown. When applied to the skin, it has been shown to control inflammation, itch or redness with atopic dermatitis. Use the ointment exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Wash your hands before applying the ointment. Apply a thin layer of Protopic to all skin areas that your doctor has diagnosed as eczema. Protopic should be applied twice a day, about 12 hours apart for treating flares. Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages, dressings, or wraps. However, you can wear normal clothing. Do not bathe, shower or swim right after applying Protopic. This could wash off the ointment.
Manufacturer Information
Protopic Ointment is available from Canada by Leo, United Kingdom by Astellas Pharma and India manufactured by GSK. The active ingredient in Protopic Ointment is tacrolimus. The generic Tacrolimus comes from India also called Tacroz manufactured by Glenmark. Protopic Ointment is available as a white to slightly yellowish ointment for topical use and comes in two strengths 0.03% and 0.1% (w/w) in the quantity of 30 mg.
Stop taking Protopic Ointment and call your doctor at once if you have one of these serious side effects:
• Cancer of white blood cells
• Kidney problems
• Skin cancer
Less serious side effects include stinging, a burning feeling or itching of the skin that is being treated with ointment, acne, allergic reaction, fever, diarrhea, swollen or infected hair follicles, headache, increased sensitivity of the skin to hot or cold temperature, or flu-like symptoms (common cold, congestion, upper respiratory infection). Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.
Avoid sunlight and sun lamps, tanning salons, and treatment with UVA or UVB light. If you need to be outdoors after applying Protopic, wear clothing that protects the treated area from the sun. Do not take Protopic Ointment if you have or had allergy to tacrolimus or any other ingredients in the medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have skin infections, weakened immune system. No drug interaction studies have been done with Protopic. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking any new medicines while using Protopic. Also, before you use any other ointments, lotions, or creams on your skin, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.